Eczema Symptoms and Custom Treatment

Atopic dermatitis is what most people think of when they think of eczema. It develops as the result of an overactive immune response and is considered a genetic condition. With atopic dermatitis, the most common symptoms will be itching, redness, rashes, and discoloration.

There are two main ways to develop or contract contact dermatitis. It can happen as the result of an irritant, which may be caused by jewelry, soaps, fabrics, or environmental factors. Less likely is contact dermatitis from an allergic reaction, like the kind you might have to poison ivy. Contact dermatitis may present as dry, itchy skin, scales, rashes, swelling, or burning.

Dyshidrotic eczema is characterized by blisters, and easy to identify by location, as well. It most often develops on the palms and soles the feet or around them, on the toes and fingers. You may notice small, itchy blisters filled with pus, as well as redness, dryness, and itching. It can go away on its own or with topical treatment.

Leathery skin texture and isolated irritation are symptoms of neurodermatitis. The inflammation is located in a single spot and often caused by a specific type of irritation, like a bite. The response to itch causes scaly patches to form and may make the skin dry and leathery. Red or purple coloring is common, as well.

Nummular eczema is noticeable by the individual sores or lesions that form, most commonly on areas like the arms, legs, and back. The sores may look like bumps or blisters, may be raised and can begin to develop a crust of dry or scaly skin. They are often associated with dark spots and itching.

In addition to the common symptoms of eczema, like redness and scaly skin, seborrheic dermatitis may be associated with conditions like dandruff, peeling, and flaking. That’s because seborrheic dermatitis often occurs in areas prone to heavy oil production, like the scalp. Seborrheic dermatitis is often the result of stress and hormone changes and, unlike other forms of eczema, will not always itch.

If you notice that your lower legs are itchier than usual, or that there is inflammation, swelling, or ulcers on the skin, you may be experiencing the effects of a condition known as stasis dermatitis. It often results from poor circulation and can be associated with obesity, weight gain from pregnancy, kidney conditions, and varicose veins. Other symptoms can include skin discoloration and ulcers.

It is important to seek medical guidance for symptoms of stasis dermatitis, as it can often indicate more complex medical conditions that should be addressed early.